Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero have parted ways after over seven incredible years. The separation came as surprise, and is proving to be more complex than it first appeared.
While both sides confirmed the decision was mutual, the timing and silence surrounding the breakup have raised questions across the tennis word. The split was handled with extreme discretion, catching even those close to the camp by surprise.
What has added further intrigue is commentary from Kiko Navarro, Alcaraz's first coach. He suggested the call may not have originated with the six-time Major winner himself.
Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero announced that Ferrero is stepping down as coach, ending their 7 year partnership. 24 titles together, including 6 Grand Slam titles. A round of applause for Juan Carlos, his dedication and hard work 👏🏼 We’ll miss him in Team Alcaraz! pic.twitter.com/8jpivAQLBi
— Outside the Ball (@outside_theball) December 17, 2025
Instead, the move appears to have been driven by people within Carlos' inner circle, for reasons extending beyond the sporting project. That detail matters, with the young gun showing loyalty to every coach he has had so far.
According to reports, the breaking point emerged just days ago during discussions over Ferrero's contract for 2026. The negotiations failed to reach common ground, and the most surprising player-coach split in recent years emerged.
Carlos and Juan Carlos produced magic on the court and in their relationship. They claimed 24 ATP titles together and achieved six Majors and eight Masters 1000 crowns, alongside the ATP throne at 19!
Carlos Alcaraz, Roland Garros 2025© Stream screenshot
Alcaraz prepares for the next chapter, and Samule Lopez will stand by his side as head coach. However, the questions remain about the final structure of the team. For now, clarity is missing.
However, we can imagine that one of the most successful partnership of modern tennis did not entirely ended on the player's terms.
"Well, I know a few things from his father from months ago, which I do not think is the time to reveal. I will find out everything tomorrow. He is training at the club tomorrow; I saw him two days ago, and he did not mention anything to me.
Obviously, they have handled it very discreetly, and everything has a beginning and an end. It surprised me; if it had happened last year, I would have been even more surprised than this year. It caught me completely off guard.
Carlos Alcaraz, ATP Finals 2025© Stream screenshot
Of course, I'm friends with the family, and I can share a few things, but it's still a surprise. It was more the decision of those around him than the player himself. Carlitos is very supportive of his coaches.
He was with me, and I know he was with Juan Carlos. However, there comes a point when, for reasons unrelated to him and to the sporting aspect, they have made this decision.
Juan Carlos has done a spectacular job; I worked with him for two years, and there's little to criticize. The people who made the decision, who were not Carlitos, must have their reasons, which I'm currently unaware of," Kiko Navarro said.
